Criminalist

• Responds to and assists in the investigation of crime scenes.
• Takes measurements, sketches scenes, and takes detailed notes.
• Identifies, collects, and preserves evidence utilizing a variety of methods.
• Searches for and recovers latent prints.
• Photographs and 3-D scans scenes.
• Attends autopsies and recovers evidential items.
• Prepares reports and crime scene diagrams.
• Teaches forensic skills.
• Remains proficient and current in crime analysis services, technology, innovations, and trends.
• Maintains awareness of pertinent laws and regulations.
• Testifies in court.
• Maintains or replace equipment as needed.
• Performs other duties as required.

• Ability to review a crime scene and recognize what, where, and how evidence may be located and collected.
• Ability to work closely with and at the direction of law enforcement officers.
• Knowledge of and ability to perform work under the ISO 17025: 2017 Standard.
• Excellent report writing and analytical skills.
• Attentiveness to details.
• Computer skills.
• Knowledge of photography and equipment.
• Must be able to carry photographic and crime scene equipment on foot over rough terrain to reach and process remote crime scenes.
• Ability to work various shifts, overtime, and be on-call on a rotating basis.
• Must be honest, truthful, trustworthy, and possess a high degree of personal integrity.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

• Associate's degree in forensic science, criminal justice or related field.
• Two years of full-time responsible investigatory, forensic, or related law enforcement experience.
  • A bachelor's degree in a related field may be considered in lieu of this experience.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.

• Advanced experience in a specialized forensic science discipline or (e.g., bloodstain pattern analysis, tire and/or footwear impression, latent print comparison, crime scene reconstruction and event sequencing, firearms/ballistic examination, NIBIN, and AFIS) preferred.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Must obtain and maintain Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) Compliance within six months of employment.

• Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, truth verification examination, motor vehicle record check, drug screen, and physical examination.

Duties are performed in a laboratory and at crime scenes with potential exposure to unpleasant crime scene conditions, including: outdoors in adverse weather conditions, potential exposure to hazardous chemicals, biohazards, noise, vibrations, dust, fumes, and odors. The position requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, stoop, and bend for prolonged periods; manual and physical dexterity. Must have the ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds. On-call status.

VISION

El Paso County will be a trusted regional leader known for excellence in county service delivery.

PURPOSE

We provide essential public services to the Pikes Peak Region in support of our residents, businesses, and communities, enhancing the freedom for all to thrive.

El Paso County is an Equal Opportunity Employer